Aiwowo facts for kids
Aiwowo (Chinese: 艾窩窩; pinyin: àiwōwo) is a yummy traditional dessert from Beijing, China. It's a sweet treat that looks a bit like a snowball. People in China have enjoyed Aiwowo for hundreds of years.
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What is Aiwowo?
Aiwowo are small, round, and white, making them look like little snowballs. They are soft and chewy on the outside. The inside is filled with a sweet and tasty mixture.
How Aiwowo is Made
The outside of Aiwowo is made from glutinous rice and flour. These ingredients are cooked together until they become a soft, sticky dough. This dough is then flattened to form the outer skin of the dessert.
The filling for Aiwowo can be different every time! Chefs use many kinds of delicious ingredients. Some common fillings include white sugar, sesame seeds, and chopped apricots. Other popular choices are melon seeds, plums, and even haws.
The History of Aiwowo
Aiwowo has a long and interesting history in China. It has been a popular snack for many centuries. Some stories say it was first made during the Ming dynasty. This was a very long time ago, around the 1500s!
A Royal Treat
One story suggests that Aiwowo was secretly made for a special person. This person was the Fragrant Concubine of the Qianlong Emperor during the Qing dynasty. The Hui people, a group in China, are often credited with inventing these sweet rice balls.
When to Enjoy Aiwowo
Traditionally, Aiwowo is sold in special Hui restaurants. You can usually find this dessert from the time of the Lunar New Year. It stays available through the late summer and early autumn months. This makes it a seasonal treat that many people look forward to each year.
